By DNA
RAWALPINDI, Dec 21, 2025: The commissioning ceremony of the second Pakistan Navy MILGEM-class ship, PNS Khaibar, was held at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, Türkiye, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan–Türkiye defence cooperation. The President of the Republic of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), also attended the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, President Erdoğan described the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Türkiye as exemplary and rooted in shared history, values, and mutual trust. He emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral collaboration, particularly in the field of defence production, to meet emerging security challenges and enhance strategic self-reliance of both countries.
Speaking on the occasion, Admiral Naveed Ashraf acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of M/s ASFAT, Istanbul Naval Shipyard, and the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) involved in the planning, design, and construction of the Pakistan Navy MILGEM ships. He lauded the deepening defence partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye, noting that sustained bilateral engagements between the Pakistan Navy and the Turkish Naval Forces continue to significantly strengthen defence collaboration and reflect an enduring strategic partnership.
Following the commissioning ceremony, President Erdoğan visited PNS Khaibar, where he was presented a Guard of Honour and interacted with officers and sailors of the ship. During the visit, the Turkish President and the Chief of the Naval Staff exchanged views on regional maritime security and discussed avenues for future Pakistan Navy–Turkish Naval Forces joint initiatives, including training, interoperability, and collaborative maritime operations.
The PN MILGEM ships represent the most technologically advanced surface combat platforms in the Pakistan Navy’s fleet. These vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art command and control systems, modern weapons, and advanced sensors, significantly enhancing Pakistan Navy’s operational capability across the full spectrum of maritime operations.
The contract for the construction of four MILGEM-class ships for Pakistan was signed in 2018 between the Ministry of Defence Production, Pakistan, and M/s ASFAT, Türkiye. Under the agreement, two ships were to be constructed in Türkiye and the remaining two in Pakistan. The commissioning of PNS Khaibar marks the completion of construction of both ships in Türkiye, underscoring a successful chapter in bilateral defence industrial cooperation.
